How to Become a Professional Locksmith

The Locksmith industry is an attractive industry, with many searching how to become a Locksmith and is locksmithing a good trade. The choice of what hours are worked, having the flexibility to have a work-life balance and to experience varied jobs everyday are just a few luxuries that Locksmiths enjoy within their job. The Locksmith industry itself is vast and ever growing, covering domestic, commercial and auto Locksmithing and is always in demand meaning that whatever the world might throw at you, you will still retain your income as a key worker!

So, the question stands, how do you become a locksmith? Take a look at our in-depth step by step guide to find out how to become a Locksmith in the UK!

 

What is a Locksmith?

A Locksmith is a professional tradesman who works with a variety of locks. A Locksmith uses various techniques to open, repair and fit locks to various buildings, offices, and cars. Locksmiths offer services to people who are locked out, who have lost their keys, need keys cutting or for changing locks.

 

What Does a Locksmith Do?

Locksmith services stretches much further from just opening and closing locks. You will find that a professional Locksmith will have an extensive knowledge of many types of locks and systems from understanding suited key systems, uPVC euro locks to unlocking Mortice locks using non-destructive entry methods.  

There are a number of services Locksmiths provides:

• Opening locked or jammed locks
• Lost keys
• Changing locks
• Fitting new locks
• Opening safes
• Opening locked cars
• Fitting digital locks
• Key cutting
• Boarding up broken into properties
• Advise on security options

What Do I Need Before Becoming a Locksmith?

The one thing you require to have before becoming a Locksmith is a full UK driving licence, as a large part of the job requires travelling to customers’ homes and commercial properties. We recommend that you get a Locksmith van as your work vehicle as you will need to carry plenty of tools and parts to each job with you.

Research Locksmiths in Your Area

Do some research into the Locksmiths in your area and see what the demand is. This will help you see what type of Locksmith is most needed in your area, and how you can situate yourself on the market. You can look into specialising as an auto Locksmith,  safe specialist or even a security consultant.

Looking at other local Locksmiths will also give you an insight into what you might need to do to promote your services. From trust signals like Checkatrade and Trustpilot to social media presence, you can begin to get an idea of what you’ll need to grow your Locksmith business.

 

How Long Does It Take to Become a Locksmith?

Becoming a Locksmith can be jumpstarted by a Locksmith course but will take a little while for you to build up your confidence and experience. We here at the Keytek^® Locksmith Training Academy offer extensive and specifically tailored Locksmith Courses, ranging from 1 to 8 days, to help you on your journey to become a Locksmith.

 

Why Become a Locksmith?

So why become a Locksmith? The Locksmith industry is vast and encompasses many different areas including domestic and commercial markets. There are many benefits including:

 

Locksmith Job Safety

The Locksmith industry is a very stable line of work as home security is vital and the Locksmith industry moves with the times. In recent times our Locksmiths have benefited as they are key workers and so it was vital, they continued working during the UK lockdown. Becoming a Locksmith, offers a security that many other industries don’t benefit from.

 

Locksmith Work/Life Balance

When you become a Locksmith, you benefit from being able to choose your own working hours; this means Locksmiths often enjoy a better work/life balance and get to spend more time with their families. Many Locksmiths still choose to work a full 40-hour week but spread it out over evenings and weekends. Becoming a Locksmith gives you the flexibility to fit work around the other important things in your life.

 

Locksmith Career Progression

Locksmiths are able to build on their career as the industry is ever changing and new products and skills are needed. As well as constantly improving on their skills and knowledge, Locksmiths have a few pathways they can take to work towards. They include working for themselves, owning their own business and subcontracting or solely subcontracting with a bigger company. Security is constantly in demand, and between 2017 and 2022, the market’s size increased by an average of 3.1 percent per year. As a growing market, it is a great industry to be entering. Becoming a Locksmith is not simply one thing, you have the pathways to expand and continually improve your services.

 

Locksmith Earnings

Depending on how many hours or jobs you choose to work, the typical annual salary for a locksmith is roughly £18,00 to £30,000. Some of our locksmiths put in more hours during the week and earn much more than that annually. To earn a greater salary requires years of experience and long hours. However, working privately as well as under a subcontract with a company is a great way to earn a bigger salary.

 

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Locksmith?

All of the Keytek® Locksmith course prices are stated in our course prospectus, please get in touch to see our Locksmith course prices. We have a great blog on the cost of becoming a Locksmith.

 

Locksmith Training Courses

The first step in becoming a Locksmith is to attend a Locksmith course. You should look to attend a course at a training centre which has been approved by an awarding body, such as the NCFE or Highfield.

Course durations can vary but if you’re a newcomer to the industry we recommended a course which is at least 5 days long to ensure that on your journey to become a Locksmith you build only the best training, knowledge, and confidence.

What is Covered in a Locksmith Course?

Depending on which course you undertake will determine what you learn on a Locksmith course. Here at the Keytek® Academy we offer the highest Locksmith qualification and accreditation in the industry. All of our Locksmith courses provide you will skilled knowledge on non-destructive opening techniques and the more extensive courses cover that plus; cylinders, key cutting, mortice locks, uPVC doors and windows, car opening and much more!

 

Our Recommends Training Courses

We have two recommended courses that we suggest for newcomers to the industry, our official Highfield Locksmith Qualification and Our Level 4 NCFE Locksmith Accreditation. Both courses are uniquely tailored to help our students as they become Locksmiths, and to ensure they receive only the highest level of education.

Our Locksmith qualification consists of an initial 8-day training period, where you will receive a level 4 Locksmith accreditation, then followed by a 3-6 month distanced learning period where you will achieve your official Locksmith qualification.

Our Level 4 Locksmith Accreditation lasts 5 days, and prepares you for a variety of different scenarios and situations to ensure you are confident enough for real life customers and situations.

 

What Are the Benefits of a Locksmith Course?

1.   You Get Access to Industry Experts

When you attend a Locksmith course, you gain the benefit of learning from and talking to some of the industry’s top experts. This means not only can you learn insider tips and tricks but you can also pick their brain on any questions you might have about the industry and about offering your services as a Locksmiths to your customers.

2.   Gain More Opportunities to Subcontract

Once you gain your qualification or accreditation, you will be able to subcontract with a national company. If you join a network such as Keytek® you can set your work hours and areas. When a job becomes available that is suitable for you, they will get in contact and book you in. Subcontracting is a good way to get started in the locksmithing industry as they do all the advertising and organisational work for you.  

3.   Protect Yourself Against Locksmith Regulations

Do you need a locksmith license in the UK? Currently, the locksmithing industry is largely unregulated and no licences are required, but this might not always be the case. Once you have your qualification or accreditation you will be in a good position if the regulations around locksmithing change.

4.   Get 24/7 Technical Support

If you do join a network like Keytek then you will have access to support from industry experts. If you are ever stuck at a job and need to talk things through, Keytek® have a tech support team that’s available 24/7. This could prove invaluable when you are first starting out, as you might need a bit of extra support regardless of whether you subcontract, they offer help to anyone that has completed one of their courses.
 

Why Should I Complete a Locksmith Course?

In order to be a successful Locksmith, you need to be effective at your job and leave your customers satisfied. The only way to do this is to get some quality training.

You could call yourself a Locksmith, turn up to someone’s house and break the lock to let them in, but you are unlikely to get paid or get another booking. You want to be able to turn up at any job and be able to complete it successfully with minimal or no damage, leaving the customer happy and their home secured.

Undertaking some form of formal Locksmith training can also allow you to offer a wider array of services which help to increase your bookings and your income.

There is more to Locksmithing than just opening doors. Attending a proper Locksmith course can give you all the skills for making your Locksmith business more successful. In terms of Locksmith courses Keytek® Locksmith Academy offers a full range of training courses, whether you are brand new to the industry, or are just looking to brush up on or learn new skills.

 

Locksmith Qualifications vs Accreditations

Prior to 2019, the only option within the Locksmith industry was either a non-accredited course (a course with no official certificate) or an official accreditation through a training academy that was approved by a body like the NCFE. Official accreditations are still a viable option; however, there is now an official qualification in Locksmithing – the first ever in the UK.

We at Keytek® suggest a course that is either a level 3 qualification, or an accreditation to at least a Level 4 start to a successful Locksmith business.

The first official Locksmith Qualification is through Highfield and our accreditation is through the renowned body NCFE.

Who are Highfield?

Highfield are one of the UK’s most recognisable awarding organisations and are regulated by many organisations including Ofqual.

 

What Does Getting a Qualified Locksmith Mean?

Becoming a qualified Locksmith sets you apart from the industry as it shows your unmatched dedication to your Locksmith skills and your commitment to a better educated industry.

Who are the NCFE?

The NCFE (Northern Advisory Council for Further Education) are a national Awarding Organisation.  The NCFE offers over 500 qualifications at different levels and in a wide range of subject areas including vocational qualifications and further education and is one of only a few awarding bodies that can provide an accreditation in Locksmithing.

It’s important to have a recognised accreditation when becoming a Locksmith to be able to sub-contract for companies.

 

What does an Accreditation Mean?

Earning an accreditation shows not only your employers, but your customers that you are trained to a professional level. It shows that you have the skills to pass an assessment, as well as the commitment to your Locksmith abilities. Many national Locksmith companies will not let you sub-contract unless you have a recognised accreditation.

 

Are Locksmiths Regulated UK?

Currently, Locksmiths are not regulated by the Government in the UK, therefore it’s important to prove your trustworthiness to your customers with a DBS check, a certified qualification or accreditation and a professional and reliable business.

As Locksmithing is unregulated, it means that anybody can become a Locksmith regardless of their skills, knowledge, background, or motive.

Whilst the Locksmith industry is not currently regulated, we continue to push for regulations and regular inspections. This is to hold those accountable and create a safer environment for Locksmithing work and reduce the number of scams taking place.

 

Why Train with Keytek^® Locksmiths

If you decide to become a Locksmith, you will want to ensure that you receive the best education from the some of the industry’s top experts, and that is what we offer at the Keytek^® Locksmith Training Academy. At our state of art training facility, we offer bespoke Locksmith training experiences that ensure your journey to becoming a Locksmith is supported by industry experts.

The Keytek® Locksmith Training Academy has state of the art training facilities with fully experienced Locksmiths. We offer:

• Locksmith training courses that are structured to suit all needs
• Small learning groups for all courses, meaning you will get the attention you need
• Courses tailored to cover any hurdles you may come up against.
• Courses taught in a ‘step by step’ progression allowing you to become a professional Locksmith
• Vehicle tooling and stocking recommendations to ensure an easy transition into the trade
• Stock and tools at discounted prices available from stock
• Keytek® provides full stock ordering through us, taking the strain out of the first few months of trading and offering you competitive prices
• 24 hour on-site technical telephone support to ensure you continue to be supported and to learn after you have completed your course
• Possibility of sub-contract work being offered at the end of the course

All of Keytek® courses have been designed to provide our trainees with the knowledge and understandings they need to become a Locksmith and succeed in their future careers. Both the course delivery and content positions Keytek® Locksmith training head and shoulders above other courses offered within the industry for thorough effective training.

If you are committed to starting or progressing through your career in Locksmithing, training with Keytek® Locksmith Training Academy will set you on the right path and give you all the tools you need to succeed.

 

Specialised Locksmith Courses

Auto Locksmithing

Auto Locksmithing is different from traditional Locksmithing, as it is specific to cars. A trainee Locksmith who takes an auto Locksmith course will be taught how to; strip, understand and rebuild a range of vehicle locks, lock picking and decoding both cylinder and laser locks, along with an overview of immobiliser systems, transponders, and diagnostics, and much, much more.

Safe Specialist

You can also become a Safe Specialist by taking another course. As safes are designed to withstand tampering and unwanted entry, you will have to have specialist training to be able to work on them. The course would involve learning a number of different techniques to be able to open most safes, using various different tools. Safe specialists are always in demand as there are many things that can prevent an owner getting into a safe; electronic failure, safe lock failure and of course forgotten codes.

Access Control

Another course you can take is for Access Control. This is usually used in business to control foot traffic for an entire workforce. It can involve key cards, electronic codes and video and audio entry systems. You will be trained on how to program and reprogram electrical security measures and understanding wiring diagrams.

You will be taught the basics during our more extensive Locksmith courses in auto Locksmithing and safe opening.

 

The Different Types of Locksmiths

The Locksmith career is a varied and everchanging landscape that provides lots of potential career progression. You can often apply the skills of one area to another but some areas, such as auto locksmithing, will need specialist training.

Domestic Locksmith

This type of Locksmith provides services to domestic customers, e.g. homeowners and renters. Lock outs, lock changes and repair are the most common callouts and become second nature to a domestic Locksmith.

This is the most common type of Locksmith and is usually the knowledge base that an experience Locksmith will start of with.

Commercial Locksmith

Offering similar services to a domestic Locksmith, a commercial Locksmith offers services to businesses and often will have contracts with accounts, like estate agents and management companies. A commercial Locksmith does differ slightly as they will often have further experience working with larger properties and will be more familiar with commercial systems like master suites and key alike.

Auto Locksmith

Auto Locksmiths are a speciality and offer a range of services related to vehicles. From car key replacement to gaining entry to key reprogramming, auto Locksmiths often have specialist training on top of their beginner Locksmith course.

Access Control

These are Locksmiths who specialise in electronic locking systems, commonly seen on office buildings and commercial spaces. This type of Locksmithing require specific equipment and training which can be more costly.

 

Things You’ll Need to Consider When Becoming a Locksmith

Tools

Every Locksmith needs a good set of tools to get the job done. In the beginning it is important to have all the tools that you require to get the job done after all you don’t want to be walking away from paying jobs just because you’re missing a tool, at the same time you don’t want to waste money on tools you’ll never use.

Keytek® Tool & Stock Packages

We offer a few tool packages here at Keytek® to set you up on the right foot, our professional trainers will be able to talk you through what is included in each package so you can decide which is best for you. You can take a look at the overview of each Locksmith tool and stock package!

 

Choose Your Name

This might seem like a simple and obvious step in starting your own Locksmith business. However, don’t try and go with an overcomplicated clever name. 

Something like your name plus Locksmith can work, for example ‘John Hooper Locksmiths’ or if you don’t want to use your name it could be something like ‘Secure Locksmiths’. It’s worth doing a bit of research of other Locksmiths within your local area, to make sure that you are not naming your business the same or very similar to anyone else.

If you want a website with to promote your business, then you will need to check the name you have chosen is available as a website domain.

 

Marketing

Marketing your business is a big one when you decide to set up your own company, it is vital in bringing in profit and expanding your network. Nowadays there are so many ways to market your business it can be confusing. Check out our blog ‘How to Market your Locksmith Business’ here!

Keytek® Academy Marketing for Locksmiths

At Keytek® we want all of our Locksmith trainees to succeed in the industry which is why we offer marketing advice at the end of our courses! If you choose to subcontract with Keytek® we offer further marketing support to help you at each step of your business and to maintain your work flow.

 

Vehicle

The vehicle you will need to get from one job to the next will be particularly expensive, as it will require fuel, insurance, taxes, and MOTs. Although it might be highly expensive, doing this is essential to starting your career. Find out our recommended vehicles for a Locksmith business!

 

Do the Paperwork

There is a small amount of paperwork when becoming a Locksmith. Firstly, deciding on a business name, then setting up the legal bits with HMRC such as registering as a Sole Trader, then setting up marketing such as your website and social media.

Additionally, getting a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check is always a good thing to have when you’re going out to people’s houses. It gives the customers extra security and peace of mind that you are not a scammer and are a genuine Locksmith.

You’ll also need to make sure you have the correct insurance and licence to run your business. It’s a legal requirement to get Public Liability Insurance to protect your company as a Locksmith. This can include compensation claims, legal expenses, cost of repairs and any medical fees. Make sure you assess your business to see if any other business insurance’s is required for you.

 

Work with Keytek® Locksmiths

Upon successful completion of one of our Locksmith courses you may be offered the chance to subcontract with Keytek®. This will allow you to begin working and earning money as soon as you qualify and with the support from our technical team you have the flexibility to grow your expertise as a Locksmith. Once you have completed a course and are on the next step of your journey to become a Locksmith you have access to call our technical team 24/7. Should you get stuck on a job or in a situation you are not confident with you are able to ring the team and they will talk you through the next steps so you can relax in the knowledge that once you are out on the road you are not alone.

Furthermore, once you are confident in Locksmithing you may continue subcontracting with Keytek® as well as working your own jobs and even when you subcontract your own staff. This allows you to maintain a steady flow of income as we are the UK’s largest Locksmith community in which many customers trust to complete their home security.

 

Decide Your Working Hours

One of the perks of the job is being able to decide how much or little you want to work, and the hours you’re available. If you want to start early to be able to pick your kids up from school, you can, or if you’re more of a night owl you can choose to start later and finish at night.

As a sub-contractor, you also can decide when to have a holiday or a well-deserved day off.

 

What Services as a Locksmith Should I Offer?

One thing to think about is what services will you as a locksmith be able to offer. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• What services will be required by the customers?
• Will you be a 24-hour emergency mobile locksmith?
• Will you be doing domestic or commercial work?

 

So, Do You Have What it Takes to Become a Locksmith?

If you are still serious about starting a career in Locksmithing, then there are a few things you need to consider.

• Are you; honest, respectful and have the ability to use discretion where necessary?
• Do you have a keen eye for detail when carrying out intricate procedures and good problem solving skills?
• Do you have the ability to gain understanding of mechanics and electronics?
• Do you have an analytical and questioning mind?
• Will you be able to empathise with customers when needed and understand their problems?
• Are you persistent and tenacious? With determination to carry out a job.
• Do you have a valid UK driving licence?

If you answered yes to most or all of these questions then a career as a Locksmith is achievable for you and you should consider a Locksmith training course. A career in Locksmithing can provide you with:

• Recession proof earnings

The Locksmith industry in general are not affected regardless of what’s going on in the wider economy.

• Flexibility

A successful Locksmith business can not only run 9-5, with a career as a Locksmith you will be able to tailor your working hours around your life. With this balance you will be able to earn a good salary a skilled tradesman can reasonably expect.

• Job satisfaction

Once you have had the necessary training to operate as a Locksmith, your abilities and confidence will continue to grow with every job you complete. Every new job will give you the opportunity to complete a new task and with that comes a tremendous feeling of fulfilment. Also, knowing that you have given a customer piece of mind that their home or business is safe and secure will bring huge satisfaction.

 

Finally, a few questions you must answer to find out what type of career path you would like to have in locksmithing are:

• Do you intend to specialise in a particular sector?
• Is there a particular market segment in your region that is unfulfilled?
• Would you prefer to have more social hours or are you willing to provide 24-hour service?
• How do you intend to develop your customer base and develop yourself?
• Will you subcontract or establish yourself as a sole trader?
• Is Being a Locksmith a Good Trade?

For people who like to work with their hands and their brain, locksmithing is a great career option. It’s a versatile profession that encourages both creativity and logic. A job as a locksmith will be ideal for you if you appreciate puzzles and problem-solving.

 

Over the course of its history, locksmithing has developed into one of the most significant and versatile professions. Locksmithing has evolved from a mechanical trade to now both a mechanical and digital trade in recent years. In this trade, you can earn a good living and locksmithing may be the career for you if you enjoy problem-solving, being active, and being hands-on.

 

Join Keytek® Locksmith Academy

Whichever Locksmith course you choose to start your career as a Locksmith, you are going to be receiving the best possible training from the Keytek® Locksmith Academy. Both offer extensive and in-depth training that will set you up for a successful career as a Locksmith. Once you complete a Locksmith course with the Keytek® Locksmith Academy, you will have the support of Keytek® expert technical team who are on call 24/7 for any technical related queries!

 Enquire about our courses today on 01202 711195 or at academy@keytek.co.uk!

 

Locksmith Career FAQ

Are Locksmiths in demand?

The Locksmith and security industry are always in demand. They are affected very little by external factors as at the end of the day unfortunately people always loose keys or lock themselves out and are in need of a Locksmith.

Is being a Locksmith a good career?

Being a Locksmith is rewarding, allows you to be flexible with your time and schedule and can be profitable. Once established within the Locksmith community, most find that the Locksmith career offers them freedom to become adaptable to other aspects of life.

Is it hard to become a Locksmith?

The Locksmith industry is unregulated, meaning that there is no requirement of formal education to become a Locksmith. However, it is strongly advised that formal training is undertaken to become a professional Locksmith. There are many Locksmith courses, alongside the industry’s first Locksmith Qualification, where you can learn the basics of becoming a Locksmith.

 

What Skills Are Needed to Become a Locksmith?

·         Patience

Not every lock is the same meaning that not every lock will be dealt with the same. Some locks are going to take longer than others, and having patience is the best way to deal with it. If you rush it you could end up making the situation worse. Remember, slow and steady wins the race!

·         Good Communication

Customer service is extremely important for a Locksmith. If you have provided good service for your customer, they are more than likely going to use you again if they require the service. They will also probably recommend you to their friends and family, therefore growing your business.

·         Being Able to Drive

Being able to drive is a key aspect of being a Locksmith as you are going to always have a lot of equipment on you, and you will need to travel a bit to get to customer houses.

 

How To Choose the Best Locksmith Course UK?

To find the best Locksmith course, we recommend reading the reviews to see what previous students have said about the course, including the content, the trainer’s knowledge and experience, the value for money and the quality of the training venue.